RESIDENTS have raised the alarm over what they fear is a heap of asbestos sheets which have sat in a residential backstreet next to a children’s play area since being dumped there around four months ago.

The pile of corrugated sheets has been left behind terraced housing in Hardshaw Street. It is claimed that despite being informed, authorities have not yet removed the materials.

According to one local resident, around 15 sheets were dumped on the land – which runs alongside a grass square where children play – in May.

The resident says he has contacted the authorities more than once, asking for someone to collect the sheets, but they have still not been removed.

The Alfred Street resident, who did not wish to be named, said: “I reported (suspected) asbestos sheets – 15 in all – tipped at the rear of 131 and 133 Hardshaw Street in May of this year to Wesley House and nothing was done.

“So I rang environmental health on 26th August. The gentleman said he would see to the problem. They are still there today. Two or three have been broken up and thrown about. Children are playing on them and it is at the side of a play area.”

A Hardshaw Street resident, who wished to remain anonymous, said: “It’s a disgrace. Even if it’s not asbestos they are an eyesore and look dangerous because they’ve got sharp edges.

“Why have they been left there so long? You get children playing around there sometimes and youngsters congregating. It’s a health risk," he added.

A spokesperson for St Helens Council said: “The council has received letters from residents expressing their concerns about an unknown material that has been left at a property.

“Our empty property officers are aware of the situation and have been in touch with the property owner so that the issue can be safely resolved.”

A spokesman added the council is considering calling specialists in.